The term functional or metabolic nutrient was given by

The term functional or metabolic nutrient was given by D. J. Nicholas.
There are 20 mineral elements necessary or beneficial for plant growth. Carbon, hydrogen and oxygen are supplied by air and water.
The 6 macronutrients, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium magnesium and Sulphur are required by plants in large amounts.
Iron, manganese, boron, molybdenum, copper, zinc, chlorine and cobalt as micronutrients.